Renovating an existing commercial building often makes great financial sense. Prior to the 1970s, many mechanical systems were designed according to the type of building rather than to the IAQ needs of occupants or to optimize energy consumption. Retrofitting with new energy-efficient ventilation systems can decrease building maintenance costs, provide optimal IAQ, and integrate mechanical system operation from a central BAS.
There are well known hazards associated with dusty construction zones. Contractors experienced with hospital construction are especially aware of the dangers of environmentally acquired fungal infections to nearby patients. With the emergence of immune suppressing drugs and immune compromised patients as a result of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980’s, the number of infections caused by the common Aspergillum mold from soil and buildings increased rapidly. Hospital construction guidelines were issued to protect this group of very vulnerable patients.